Nationwide Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Nationwide has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to financial strength, Nationwide provides a comprehensive suite of insurance and financial services, aiming to secure the future for its clients through robust market presence and diversified offerings.

Leadership Roles at Nationwide

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kirt Walker
  • Vice President Chief Financial Officer Group Benefits and Pet - Shaun Peterson
  • Chief Operating Officer, Business Unit, Management Liability & Specialty - Timothy Minnich
  • President - Jonathan Jackson
  • Chief of Staff - Douglas Huber
  • Investment Strategies Chief of Staff - Elizabeth Schlater
  • Annuity Distribution Chief of Staff - Chelley Pepino
  • Corporate Development Chief of Staff - Kristina Vos
  • Chief of Staff, Nationwide Annuity - Lauren Wharton
  • Director, Staff Operations & Chief of Staff - Alicia Gross
  • Kirt Walker - Chief Executive Officer

    Kirt Walker, the Chief Executive Officer at Nationwide, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the Fortune 100 diversified insurance and financial services organization. Walker's leadership guides Nationwide's mission to provide a full spectrum of insurance and financial solutions, including auto, commercial, homeowners, farm, and life insurance, alongside retirement plans, annuities, mutual funds, banking, and mortgages. This executive steers the company's commitment to maintaining its A+ ratings from A.M. Best and Standard & Poors, ensuring financial stability and robust market positioning. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses driving innovation across all business units, fostering a culture of customer-centricity, and ensuring alignment with the company's long-term growth objectives. By focusing on strategic market expansion and operational efficiency, Kirt Walker solidifies Nationwide's role as a leading financial services provider.
    Kirt Walker

    Shaun Peterson - Vice President Chief Financial Officer Group Benefits and Pet

    Shaun Peterson, the Vice President Chief Financial Officer Group Benefits and Pet at Nationwide, directs the financial strategy and oversight for the group benefits and pet insurance divisions. Peterson's financial acumen ensures the profitability and fiscal health of these specialized business units, aligning their performance with Nationwide's overall financial objectives. This executive manages budgeting, financial planning, and risk management for group benefits and pet insurance, driving sustainable growth and operational efficiency. By providing critical financial insights and guidance, Shaun Peterson supports the strategic development and market expansion of these product lines. The Vice President Chief Financial Officer ensures robust financial management contributes to Nationwide's strong market position.

    Timothy Minnich - Chief Operating Officer, Business Unit, Management Liability & Specialty

    Timothy Minnich, the Chief Operating Officer, Business Unit, Management Liability & Specialty at Nationwide, oversees the operational strategy and execution for specialized insurance lines. Minnich's leadership focuses on enhancing the efficiency and profitability of management liability and specialty insurance products, ensuring Nationwide meets diverse client needs. This executive drives operational excellence within these business units, managing underwriting, claims, and customer service functions to maintain high standards of service and financial performance. By optimizing processes and fostering innovation in product development, Timothy Minnich strengthens Nationwide's competitive position in niche insurance markets. The Chief Operating Officer ensures these specialized units contribute effectively to the company's overall mission and financial stability.
    Timothy Minnich

    Jonathan Jackson - President

    Jonathan Jackson, the President at Nationwide, leads significant business units and drives strategic growth initiatives across the organization. Jackson's leadership focuses on enhancing market performance and operational effectiveness within assigned divisions, contributing to Nationwide's Fortune 100 standing. This executive oversees key operational areas, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to provide comprehensive insurance and financial services. By championing innovation and strategic execution, Jonathan Jackson strengthens Nationwide's competitive edge and its ability to deliver exceptional value to clients. The President's role is integral to maintaining the company's financial strength and expanding its market reach.

    Douglas Huber - Chief of Staff

    Douglas Huber, the Chief of Staff at Nationwide, facilitates strategic initiatives and operational alignment across key departments of the diversified financial services organization. Huber's role involves enhancing executive decision-making by streamlining communication and project management, ensuring critical business objectives are met. This executive supports the Chief Executive Officer and other senior leaders in executing the company's mission to provide comprehensive insurance and financial services, from auto and life insurance to retirement plans and banking. By managing cross-functional projects and driving process improvements, Douglas Huber contributes directly to Nationwide's operational efficiency and its ability to maintain strong financial performance and customer satisfaction. The Chief of Staff ensures that strategic priorities are translated into actionable plans, supporting the company's market leadership and commitment to financial strength.

    Elizabeth Schlater - Investment Strategies Chief of Staff

    Elizabeth Schlater, the Investment Strategies Chief of Staff at Nationwide, spearheads the strategic planning and operational execution for the company's investment management functions. Schlater's responsibilities include optimizing the performance of annuities, mutual funds, and other financial products, ensuring alignment with Nationwide's broader financial services offerings. This executive works closely with investment leaders to develop and implement strategies that enhance portfolio growth and manage risk effectively, supporting the company's Fortune 100 status. By driving efficiency in investment operations and facilitating communication between investment teams and executive leadership, Elizabeth Schlater plays a crucial part in maintaining Nationwide's strong financial standing and its ability to offer competitive financial solutions. The Investment Strategies Chief of Staff ensures that investment strategies directly support the company's mission of providing robust financial services.

    Chelley Pepino - Annuity Distribution Chief of Staff

    Chelley Pepino, the Annuity Distribution Chief of Staff at Nationwide, directs strategic initiatives and operational enhancements within the annuity sales and distribution channels. Pepino's focus is on optimizing the reach and effectiveness of Nationwide's annuity products, ensuring seamless delivery to clients seeking retirement solutions. This executive collaborates with sales leadership to drive market penetration and revenue growth, reinforcing Nationwide's position as a leading provider of financial services. By streamlining distribution processes and fostering strong relationships with sales partners, Chelley Pepino contributes significantly to the company's ability to meet client needs for retirement planning and financial security. The Annuity Distribution Chief of Staff ensures that distribution strategies align with the company's overall mission and financial objectives.

    Kristina Vos - Corporate Development Chief of Staff

    Kristina Vos, the Corporate Development Chief of Staff at Nationwide, drives strategic planning and execution for mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships. Vos's role is critical in identifying and integrating opportunities that expand Nationwide's market presence and enhance its diversified insurance and financial services portfolio. This executive works to ensure that all corporate development activities align with the company's long-term vision and financial goals, supporting its Fortune 100 status. By managing complex deal processes and fostering collaboration across internal teams and external stakeholders, Kristina Vos contributes to Nationwide's sustained growth and competitive advantage. The Corporate Development Chief of Staff ensures that strategic investments and partnerships bolster the company's mission and financial strength.

    Lauren Wharton - Chief of Staff, Nationwide Annuity

    Lauren Wharton, the Chief of Staff, Nationwide Annuity, directs strategic initiatives and operational improvements within the company's annuity business segment. Wharton's responsibilities include enhancing the efficiency of annuity product development, sales, and service operations, ensuring alignment with Nationwide's broader financial services strategy. This executive collaborates with annuity leadership to drive growth and client satisfaction, reinforcing Nationwide's commitment to providing robust retirement solutions. By streamlining operational workflows and facilitating cross-functional collaboration, Lauren Wharton contributes significantly to the success of the annuity division and its ability to meet market demands. The Chief of Staff ensures that the annuity business operates effectively to support the company's financial objectives.

    Alicia Gross - Director, Staff Operations & Chief of Staff

    Alicia Gross, the Director, Staff Operations & Chief of Staff at Nationwide, manages critical operational functions and supports strategic initiatives across various departments. Gross's role involves optimizing internal processes and ensuring efficient resource allocation to support Nationwide's diverse insurance and financial services operations. This executive works to enhance operational effectiveness, contributing to the company's ability to deliver consistent value to clients and stakeholders. By overseeing staff operations and providing strategic support to leadership, Alicia Gross plays a key part in maintaining Nationwide's reputation for financial strength and operational excellence. The Director, Staff Operations & Chief of Staff ensures that operational frameworks support the company's overarching mission.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nationwide Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Nationwide?
    Nationwide is led by Kirt Walker (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Shaun Peterson (Vice President Chief Financial Officer Group Benefits and Pet) and Timothy Minnich (Chief Operating Officer, Business Unit, Management Liability & Specialty).
    Who is part of Nationwide’s executive team?
    The executive team of Nationwide includes leaders such as Kirt Walker (Chief Executive Officer), Shaun Peterson (Vice President Chief Financial Officer Group Benefits and Pet), Timothy Minnich (Chief Operating Officer, Business Unit, Management Liability & Specialty) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Nationwide have?
    Nationwide has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Nationwide’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Nationwide includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Vice President Chief Financial Officer Group Benefits and Pet, Chief Operating Officer, Business Unit, Management Liability & Specialty, President, Chief of Staff.